Mass Effect 2 is a role-playing game with an outer space, science fiction setting and action-oriented, third-person shooter play. The game is released as the second in a planned trilogy from BioWare. Players resume the role of Commander Shepard, the customizable protagonist of the first game, choosing the hero's gender, appearance, skills, and abilities to match personal preferences and playing styles. Combat is squad-based, as in the original game, and players may choose their teammates from a roster of stealthy assassins, superhumanly strong warriors, and brilliant masters of mystical powers. The game's main quest is seen as a suicide mission, so assembling a team that is not only able but also willing to follow Shepard into the dangerous unknown of deep space remains a role-playing challenge throughout the adventure.